As the state transitions to clean, renewable energy, it recognizes the need for equitable policies and practices that center the most marginalized. Research shows that low-income communities incur higher energy costs and are more likely to suffer from environmental pollutants, resulting in increased rates of disease. As a result, the state has engaged in energy justice—the involvement of underrepresented communities in creating solutions and the fair distribution of clean energy benefits within its clean energy laws. Under Assembly Bill (AB) 1550 (Gomez, Chapter 369, Statutes of 2016), 35 percent of auction proceeds must be used for projects targeting state-defined disadvantaged communities.

One shining example of the state’s progress, is the construction of Casas de la Viña, an affordable housing complex specifically designed for farm workers in Central Valley. The development was conceptualized by Self-Help Enterprises, a community development nonprofit whose mission is “to work together with low-income families to build and sustain healthy homes and communities.” The organization serves San Joaquin Valley, known for its agricultural production and high poverty rates. Casas de la Viña is considered a groundbreaking project for a region whose housing often lacks adequate sewer, energy and water services. The complex, which is managed by a nonprofit developer, has “upgrade[d] its hot water systems, put in interior and exterior LED lighting, replaced old refrigerators and faucets, sealed ductwork, [and] installed heat-pump water heaters (which are about 200 percent more efficient than the old models),” with the assistance of the Association for Energy Affordability, a nonprofit energy provider. The upgrades contributed to the complex achieving zero net energy status, one of the first housing complexes in the United States to do so.

As California continues its efforts, more states may look to California as a model for successfully engaging citizens as partners in a greener, more equitable future. As California has shown, multi-stakeholder partnerships with local agencies, community-based organizations, businesses and other stakeholders, are necessary to get the transformational change needed to stave off extreme weather.— Chelsea Dennis

Chelsea has made it her life's mission to serve communities in need and create greater change. As a Programs Assistant at the Elks National Foundation, Chelsea manages a $5.5 million portfolio of more than 2,000 small community grants. Prior to joining the ENF, Chelsea served as an AmeriCorps member for two years. The first year she served with City Year Washington DC where she provided mentorship, tutoring, and social-emotional skill building to elementary students. After her first term, she relocated to Chicago and served at Albany Park Community Center, where she supported immigrants in obtaining the English skills necessary to pursue their personal goals.